9 May 2012, Afghanistan: UN Humanitarian Chief Valerie Amos visited the Parwan Se informal settlement in Kabul on Tuesday, the second day of her four-day visit to Afghanistan. Latest figures from UNICEF indicate that there are over 49 such informal settlements across Kabul, in which 30,000 people are currently living. Credit: UNAMA

9 May 2012, Afghanistan: USG Amos said that she was appalled by what she saw, in particular the unacceptable conditions families, especially women and children, are forced to endure in the heart of the capital city. The families live in lean-to shanties and have little access to water and sanitation, basic hygiene, health, education, and regular income.Credit: UNAMA

9 May 2012, Afghanistan: USG Amos met community leaders at the informal settlement to discuss the conditions affecting the families. While this community does receive some support from government-run medical facilities and international NGOs, many of them still live in poverty and are in need of assistance. She called upon the international community to continue making every effort to ensure a dignified existence for all communities in need. Credit: UNAMA

9 May 2012, Afghanistan: Many people, especially children, in informal settlements were severely affected by the harsh winter earlier this year. UN agencies such as UNHCR distributed urgently-needed winter supplies as night-time temperatures dipped below freezing point across the country. Credit: UNAMA

9 May 2012, Afghanistan: USG Amos emphasized that effective relief and durable solutions are urgently needed to meet the needs of the displaced people in the country. More than a third of Afghanistan’s population has been affected by displacement mostly due to conflict, recurrent natural hazards and lack of economic opportunity. Credit: UNAMA